Speakers

Rob and Doug will help you understand the difference between The Rotary International Foundation and The Akron Rotary Foundation. 

Purposeful Giving is a concept that emphasizes intentional, thoughtful, and meaningful acts of generosity. 

They will discuss how giving goes beyond simply donating money or resources—it’s about aligning your giving with your values, making a sustainable impact, and fostering connection and purpose.

Marissa Gerbitz was born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Kent State University, graduating Magna Cum Laude. During her time at Kent State, she was an active member of Delta Gamma and volunteered with the Kent Lions Club. She later completed her Master of Science in Nursing at the University of Cincinnati. Before joining Apex, Marissa worked as a registered nurse at Rainbow Babies & Children’s Hospital and as a nurse practitioner at Milan Laser, where she received two medical excellence awards for outstanding patient care. Currently enrolled in the Apex training program, Marissa specializes in diagnosing and treating both acute and chronic dermatologic conditions for patients of all ages. Outside of work, she enjoys traveling, spending time with family and friends, staying active with Pilates, and listening to ’80s rock. A proud Ohioan, she’s also an enthusiastic Ohio State football fan.

Amanda Barna, M.A. is Principal and co-founder of the Center for Marketing & Opinion Research (CMOR). A small-business leader who wears many hats, she oversees business strategy, marketing and client development, and serves as a lead researcher and project manager. With more than 25 years of quantitative and qualitative research experience, Amanda specializes in survey design, secondary data analysis, program evaluation, community health assessments and translating findings into clear, actionable recommendations for community partners.

Amanda earned both her M.A. in Urban Studies and B.A. in Sociology from The University of Akron (where she was named Undergraduate Student of the Year). She is an alumna of Leadership Akron Class 37; past board member of Akron Torchbearers; past Board Chair and current Board Member of Goodwill Industries of Akron; and President of the University of Akron Buchtel College of Arts & Sciences Alumni Council. Amanda, along with her sister, run their local school district’s annual Safety Town program for incoming kindergarteners. She is a recipient of the Greater Akron Chamber’s 30 for the Future award.

Amanda lives in Canal Fulton with her husband, Tim, their three sons, and two spoiled dogs and is an avid runner who enjoys long distance running and trail races.